Battling cancer? You are not alone
By Becky Barclay
Published in News on May 16, 2012 1:46 PM
The American Cancer Society provides free services to cancer survivors and their caregivers. Following are programs and services available in Wayne County:
* Reach to Recovery. Volunteer breast cancer survivors do one-on-one visits with women with breast cancer who will have or have had a lumpectomy, mastectomy or recurrence. Volunteers share their experiences and offer support. The patient, physician or caregiver may request this service by calling 1-800-227-2345.
* Look Good ... Feel Better. This group workshop helps women who are undergoing cancer treatment deal with appearance-related side effects. Volunteers focus on skin care and makeup and demonstrate how to use wigs, scarves and hats to enhance their appearance. Patients must be undergoing chemotherapy or radiation treatment. Each patient will receive a free makeup kit valued at more than $250. The program is provided monthly at Wayne Memorial Hospital. To register, call 1-800-227-2345.
* Hope Lodge. The lodge provides free temporary lodging for cancer patients and their caregivers who have to travel to Greenville for treatment. It provides a supportive, homelike environment while reducing the financial burden of multiple-night hotel stays. Transportation to a nearby treatment center is also provided. For more information, call 1-800-227-2345.
* Dietitian on Call. Registered dietitians provide free telephone counseling to answer questions about nutrition and cancer to help patients achieve a healthy weight after treatment is completed. Written materials are provided and follow-ups are done. To reach a dietitian, call 1-800-227-2345.
* Oncology Social Worker. Licensed clinical social workers help patients and their families with complex cancer-related issues such as loss of income, lack of health insurance, locating community resources and the emotional impact of a cancer diagnosis. To reach a social worker, call 1-800-227-2345.
* Cancer Survivors Network. This community created by and for survivors and caregivers is an outlet to cope with the challenges and emotions that living with cancer can bring. Patients, families and caregivers will find personal stories, chat rooms, information, community resources and more. The network can be accessed 24 hours a day by calling 1-800-227-2345 or by logging onto www.cancer.org.
* National Cancer Information Center. This is a national tollfree hotline that operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Information specialists answer questions about cancer and cancer-related topics. In addition to information on specific cancers and their treatment, there is also information on detection, prevention, alternative methods and community resources. The most up-to-date written materials on cancer can be obtained at no cost and can be sent by mail, fax or email. There is also information on events, programs and services of the American Cancer Society. For information, call 1-800-227-2345.